The Health Benefits Of Turnip‏

Many people, especially in the Caribbean and other countries across the world have used this wonderful vegetable called “turnip” in soups and other dishes because of its sweet aroma and bitter but yet welcoming taste.

Turnip, a vegetable root, can be described as white, fleshy and looks like a bulb and is consumed all over the world. Originated in Europe but is currently grown in various countries, turnips are normally prepared with fatty meats because it absorbs fat easily.

Turnip is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, foltae, riboflvain, thiamin, powerful anti-oxidants, pantothenic acid, manganese, copper, iron, protein, potassium, low in calories, rich source of fibre, calcium, beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids.

Turnip

Turnips can be eaten raw, cooked or used to make juices, poultice (soft heated dressing applied to an inflamed or sore area of the skin) and is known to prevent, cure or treat a variety of health conditions which includes, the strengthening of the immune system, prevents cancer, tuberculosis, enhance sexual function, cleanses the stomach, strengthens the bones, protects the skin from diseases, treats acne, eczema, strengthens the hair, nails and teeth.

Turnip juice can also eliminate cough, astma, angina, prevents anemia, reduce blood pressure, a paste made with turnip can be used to treat boils, toothache, very beneficial for weight loss, prevents eye diseases, arthritis, protects against heart disease, heart attack, stroke, aids in digestion, protects the lungs, prevents atherosclerosis, prevents body odor and protects the skin from ageing and wrinkles.

With that said, turnips should not be overcooked as it will alter the nutritional content, turnips can be found in a different species like baby turnips, this occurs when the turnips are harvested before they get enough time to mature.

Also “rutabaga” or yellow turnip, this occurs when the turnip crossed a cabbage with the common turnip breed, the leaves can also be eaten as a vegetable in salads.

Turnip greens are basically referred to the leaves and is popularly called “turnip top” in the UK which resembles mustard green in flavour.

But with all that said, turnips should be a part of your daily diet to ward off a variety of health conditions.